Woman's Club to honor one of own

The Abilene Woman's Club will honor Reba Boyd Smith at this year's annual Legacy Luncheon on Friday afternoon.

Keynote speaker will be Texas Supreme Court Justice Eva Guzman.

The AWC aims to promote the cultural and civic advance of the city though the study of literature, history, science, painting, music and other fine arts.

A longtime member of the AWC, the 90-year-old Smith grew up in Arkansas, graduated from Odessa High school and attended Howard Payne University and Hardin-Simmons University. In addition, she married and raised a family with Milton Boyd for 56 years. Following his death, she married J.L. Smith in 1999.

Smith was a homemaker, an independent beauty consultant with Mary Kay Cosmetics and was employed by Abilene ISD and Hardin-Simmons University. She also was a "faithful volunteer" politically and represented women as a delegate at the Texas state conventions.

"A true and dedicated citizen of our state, she was always ready to serve when asked. To this day, she continues to support the political process," a news release stated. "What an outstanding mentor and example for young women to follow. Ms. Smith is a treasured legacy of her time."

Guzman, the state Supreme Court justice and keynote speaker for the luncheon, was appointed to the court by Gov. Rick Perry in 2009.

"Justice Guzman has dedicated her life to giving back to her community and received numerous honors from various organizations recognizing her professional and civic accomplishments," the release said.

The luncheon goes hand in hand with the organization's annual reception, which is being hosted this evening at the home of Lou and Robert Briley.